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ST. LOUIS COUNTY — St. Louis County is joining a nationwide effort called Operation Green Light for Veterans — a simple, visible way to say “we see you” to the men and women who served.
The ask couldn’t be easier: screw in a green bulb, flip the switch, and let it shine between November 4 and 11, the week leading up to Veterans Day. One porch light, one storefront, one string of LEDs in a diner window — that’s all it takes to remind 13,000 veterans living here that they still matter.
“Veterans are an important part of St. Louis County and Operation Green Light is a simple but powerful way for all of us to show them that their service matters,” said County Veterans Service Officer Nadine Wells. “Last year we saw great support stretching from Hibbing to Duluth. Even Bentleyville lit its main tree green. We’re hoping it grows again this year.”
This year’s campaign is part celebration, part promise. The County Board passed a proclamation to keep Operation Green Light as an annual November tradition — a moment when the community’s gratitude actually glows. Green, the color of hope and renewal, sends the right message: welcome home, thank you, and we haven’t forgotten.
The movement began in 2021 with the National Association of Counties and New York State Association of Counties. It’s spread because it’s honest — no ceremony, no politics, just color and light. For a week, veterans driving through town should see storefronts, landmarks and lighthouses echoing the same message in every shade of green.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to post photos online using
#OperationGreenLight #SupportOurVeterans #StLouisCountyMNCares.
A short video highlighting last year’s glowing landmarks is available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oR57wAK0bKA.
